Good morning, Dover.

A national bookstore chain, Books-A-Million, opened a 12,000-square-foot store in Dover on Sept.

25 at the former Party City site at 1047 N. Dupont Highway — it will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Oct. 10 along with local author signings on Oct. 11 and Oct. 18 and family events including face painting and balloon art.

Delaware Governor Matt Meyer signed three pieces of legislation on Thursday that improved accessibility for people with disabilities, protected towing consumers, and set new limits for licensed electricians’ apprenticeships—measures that will enforce penalties for parking violations and clarify towing standards to enhance public safety. State legislators sponsored the bills to ensure all Delawareans have fair access and safe transportation options.

Gov. Matt Meyer nominated Christen Linke Young to lead DHSS as Josette Manning leaves on October 1 to become State Director for Sen. Chris Coons—Young’s nomination now awaits confirmation by the Delaware State Senate.

Archival excerpts from The News Journal show that in 1925 a $20,000 memorial was dedicated to Delaware naval hero Commodore Macdonough in Vergennes—Newark home prices were rising faster than incomes in 1975, and in 2000 the final bids were requested for an eight-mile section of Del. 1 to improve travel.

Delaware lawmakers announced public hearings on the state property reassessment this fall at Legislative Hall in Dover with sessions scheduled for September 30th, October 7th, October 21st and November 4th at 9:30 a.m. The bipartisan committee will allow public comment, livestream the hearings and review the process to improve fairness for taxpayers.

Two opinion writers urged Dover leaders to increase structured activities for teens and young adults to channel idle time away from negative influences—sparking debate on how the city can better support its youth.

Their commentary raises questions about boosting local recreational opportunities and positive outcomes.

Indian River's defense held Saint Mark's to no points on three crucial second-half possessions as they won 21-3 on the road to improve to a 5-0 record; district play begins at Laurel in two weeks while Saint Mark's starts its playoff bid next Friday.

Lamier Wright, a sophomore defensive back from Lake Forest, was named Delaware Online Football Athlete of the Week for Sept.

19-20 as presented by Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists—he intercepted a pass in the end zone to help secure a 49-20 win over Dover and won an online vote among four nominees—while nominees for the next round will appear on Sept. 29.

Cirque Italia: Water Circus

7:30 p.m. — Dover Mall — Ticket prices vary — Experience an aquatic spectacular featuring breathtaking performances over a custom-designed water stage.

Community Yard Sale

12-4 p.m. — Sheffield Farms Neighborhood — Free entry — Discover great deals and connect with fellow neighbors in this friendly community yard sale.

Delaware Gospel Comedy Explosion

12 PM – 3 AM — Noble's Pond — $64.80 — Enjoy an uplifting Christian comedy dinner with performances by Comedian Small Fire and Host Comedian Jream.

Dover Delaware Women's Connection Program and Breakfast Buffet

9:30-11:30 a.m. — Maple Dale Country Club — $22 inclusive — Enjoy a delightful breakfast and engaging presentations at the Women's Connection gathering.

Be Great 5K

9-11 a.m. — Greater Dover Boys & Girls Club — Participation fee may apply — Celebrate fitness and community at the 12th Annual Be Great 5K Walk/Run.